What a great success the 20th Aberdeen Highland Games were last weekend. It was a beautiful day, plenty of stalls, children's games, the popular strongmen, tug-o-war and I think it was the biggest crowds we've had. As always the marching bands were amazingly talented.

Aside form the annual festival, there is also now a permanent tribute to the Scottish influence that is so strong in Aberdeen and surrounds. A traditional commemorative rock structure, called a cairn, is in place in Taylor Park now to honour the cultural heritage of those who were such a big part of the founding and growth of Aberdeen. Council were very pleased to contribute half the costs of its creation out of local rock, as part of the celebrations of the 20th Games. See you at the 21st Aberdeen Highland Games next year.

Earth Fest

Mark Saturday 26 July in your diary because you don't want to miss Earth-Fest with lots of stalls, workshops, and information about sustainable living, as well as music and other entertainment. And it's all happening in the grounds of the beautiful, heritage trust listed Segenhoe Inn. Entry is gold coin donation and all funds raised will go to Fishing with a Farmer, where farming families have the opportunity to enjoy an outing on Lake Glenbawn. This initiative of Sustainable Education, and the Pryors who own the Inn, is being supported by Council. On the Friday 25 July, the Logie-winning host of Gardening Australia, Costa Georgiadis will be visiting schools and then holding a workshop at Segenhoe Inn. Find out more at www.earth-fest.com.au

Poetry Slam at Scone Library

Whether you are young or old, if you are interested in live performance there is a free Poetry Slam workshop being held Thursday morning 18 July in Scone. Call Scone Library on 6540 1183 to book your spot to help hone poetry writing and performance skills. If you want to get competitive, there will be a Scone heat Poetry Slam Friday evening 6 September at the library.

What is a poetry slam? A microphone, a live audience and two minutes to impress the judges with their original poetry, stories...whatever they do with words.

The top-scoring poets will go on to the Hunter Regional Heat in Newcastle, followed by NSW and then Australian finals. To find out more search for Hunter Poetry Slam on Facebook or go to www.australianpoetryslam.com